Tito's Tacos
11222 Washington Place, Culver City, CA 90230
310-391-5780
http://www.titostacos.com/
Located just west of Sepulveda Blvd. They have their own parking lot and street parking, however during meal times, parking can be difficult.
Fast food. Order and pick up at the inside or outside counter. Some covered dining. Cash only.
Visited: Numerous times over the years. Dinner, Take-out.
You know it's good if the cops eat here. Well, judging by the lines, everyone eats here!
The menu is limited, but everything they do is good. They have Burritos (bean, BRC, beef), Tamales ($2.70, beef or chicken), Enchilidas ($2.15, Cheddar) and Tostadas ($2.15, beans), but my favorite is the Tito's Taco with Cheese ($2.20) - you must be clear to say with cheese if that's how you want it. The tacos are a crisp shell filled with shredded beef, lettuce, and Cheddar cheese - simple as that.
All orders come with a large portion of chips and their homemade fresh tomato salsa. The salsa is so refreshing, and goes great with their Refried Beans ($1.50). They also have Chili Beans, but I prefer the refritos.
The perfect dinner is 2 tacos with cheese, an order of refried beans, plus the chips and salsa. That means dinner is $5.90. Amazing. While you can order a soda to go, I recommend taking your Tito's Tacos home and opening a bottle of merlot. It sounds odd, but the combination is wonderful.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Diddy Riese Cookies, Los Angeles, CA
Diddy Riese Cookies
926 Broxton Ave, Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
310-208-0048
http://www.diddyriese.com/
Pay and metered parking available throughout Westwood.
Fast food. Limited seating.
Visited: Numerous times over the last 10 years. Take-out.
Diddy Riese's is a mainstay of Bruin life, located in Westwood Village about a block from the UCLA campus.
Their cookies ($0.35) are great - my favorites are the chocolate chip and cinnamon sugar, but they also have 8 other traditional flavors to choose from: choc chip with walnuts, white choc chip, white choc chip mac nut, peanut butter, double chocolate with nuts, oatmeal rasin, chocolate with white choc chip, and candy (like M&Ms). Three cookies are $1.00, Half Dozen are $2.00, and a Diddy Dozen is $3.75,
They also serve brownies, Dreyer's Ice Cream and now offer Hawaiian Shave Ice.
But for a real treat, get the Ice Cream Sandwich ($1.50): your choice of two cookies and your choice of ice cream. My favorite combo is 2 cinnamon sugar cookies with vanilla. YUM!
Diddy Riese's is open until midnight, and til 1am on Fridays and Saturdays. Don't be surprised if there's still a line at closing time.
926 Broxton Ave, Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
310-208-0048
http://www.diddyriese.com/
Pay and metered parking available throughout Westwood.
Fast food. Limited seating.
Visited: Numerous times over the last 10 years. Take-out.
Diddy Riese's is a mainstay of Bruin life, located in Westwood Village about a block from the UCLA campus.
Their cookies ($0.35) are great - my favorites are the chocolate chip and cinnamon sugar, but they also have 8 other traditional flavors to choose from: choc chip with walnuts, white choc chip, white choc chip mac nut, peanut butter, double chocolate with nuts, oatmeal rasin, chocolate with white choc chip, and candy (like M&Ms). Three cookies are $1.00, Half Dozen are $2.00, and a Diddy Dozen is $3.75,
They also serve brownies, Dreyer's Ice Cream and now offer Hawaiian Shave Ice.
But for a real treat, get the Ice Cream Sandwich ($1.50): your choice of two cookies and your choice of ice cream. My favorite combo is 2 cinnamon sugar cookies with vanilla. YUM!
Diddy Riese's is open until midnight, and til 1am on Fridays and Saturdays. Don't be surprised if there's still a line at closing time.
Il Toscano, Torrance, CA
Il Toscano Ristorante
24590 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA 90505
310-378-2686
http://iltoscanoonline.com/
Located at the top of Hillside Village, plenty of free parking. Requires going up stairs to get to the restaurant.
Higher end. Reservations recommended. Now open Sundays.
Visited: Numerous times over the last 15 years. Dinner, dine-in
Il Toscano has long been our favorite Italian restaurant. The owner, Vittorio, is full of character and his food is great.
Our World Famous Cioppino ($25.95) is delicious. It's a great sampling of seafood in a very lovely tomatoey broth. Comes with toasted garlic bread.
The Lasagna ($12.95) is also very tasty with layers of bolognese and bechamelle sauces.
If you've never had squid ink pasta, here's a great place to try it. The Sringhe al nero di Seppi ($13.95) is a long pasta served with shrimp in a light cream sauce. It looks a little bizarre, but is pretty tasty.
Be sure to plan ahead for dessert ($7.00) - the Tiramisu and the Chocolate Mousse are creamy and heavenly! There's also usually a dessert of the day, so be sure to ask.
24590 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA 90505
310-378-2686
http://iltoscanoonline.com/
Located at the top of Hillside Village, plenty of free parking. Requires going up stairs to get to the restaurant.
Higher end. Reservations recommended. Now open Sundays.
Visited: Numerous times over the last 15 years. Dinner, dine-in
Il Toscano has long been our favorite Italian restaurant. The owner, Vittorio, is full of character and his food is great.
Our World Famous Cioppino ($25.95) is delicious. It's a great sampling of seafood in a very lovely tomatoey broth. Comes with toasted garlic bread.
The Lasagna ($12.95) is also very tasty with layers of bolognese and bechamelle sauces.
If you've never had squid ink pasta, here's a great place to try it. The Sringhe al nero di Seppi ($13.95) is a long pasta served with shrimp in a light cream sauce. It looks a little bizarre, but is pretty tasty.
Be sure to plan ahead for dessert ($7.00) - the Tiramisu and the Chocolate Mousse are creamy and heavenly! There's also usually a dessert of the day, so be sure to ask.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
The Dinner Detective, Courtyard Marriott, Culver City, CA
The Dinner Detective
Courtyard Los Angeles Westside
6333 Bristol Parkway, Culver City, CA 90230
http://www.thedinnerdetective.com/
http://www.marriott.com/
Visited: January 2010, Dinner, Dine-in
This is a combo review of the dinner theater, The Dinner Detective, and of the venue, the Courtyard Marriott.
The Dinner Detective is an interactive, part scripted/part improv, murder mystery theater presentation. After you've checked in, you're asked to fill out a nametag with your alias for the evening. Then during the reception, you're given instructions to begin 'interrogating' your fellow guests - some of which are in fact, guests like you, others are actors mingling with the group as fellow guests.
The reception had a cash bar for soda, beer, wine and cocktails, and open service of coffee and hot tea. The hot hors d'oeuvres were veggie spring rolls and veggie quesadillas. Both were tasty, but a bit soft - the travails of serving them in a chafing dish, I suppose.
Dinner started with a nice mixed green salad with mushrooms, carrots, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes. A light vinaigrette was available on the table, as were rolls and butter.
Between courses, mystery action occurred, and during the meal, we were given clues to review and opportunity to discuss with our fellow guests.
We had a choice of entree (which you reserve when you purchase your tickets), and we wanted to try each they had to offer: tri tip with peppercorn sauce, Alaskan king salmon with lemon butter, and chicken marsala. The servings were very generous (for example, you got a whole chicken breast not just a half), and came with rather plain mashed potatoes, and large servings of carrots and broccoli. The meats were tender and their accompanying sauces were tasty, but we wished we had more of the sauce. There was also a pasta primavera (vegetarian) option that someone else at our table had, but they were not very pleased with it.
The murder mystery comes to a crescendo during the next break, and over dessert, you are given an answer sheet to identify who you think is the killer and why. Dessert was a very tasty double fudge chocolate cake served over caramel and raspberry sauces.
As we're wrapping up dessert, the detectives return to announce who did it and why. And then the host announces the winner who correctly deduced the killer and motive.
It was all very light-hearted and good fun, and the food was pretty good, too. The service seemed right on time and very responsive. I would recommend the show and the venue.
Courtyard Los Angeles Westside
6333 Bristol Parkway, Culver City, CA 90230
http://www.thedinnerdetective.com/
http://www.marriott.com/
Visited: January 2010, Dinner, Dine-in
This is a combo review of the dinner theater, The Dinner Detective, and of the venue, the Courtyard Marriott.
The Dinner Detective is an interactive, part scripted/part improv, murder mystery theater presentation. After you've checked in, you're asked to fill out a nametag with your alias for the evening. Then during the reception, you're given instructions to begin 'interrogating' your fellow guests - some of which are in fact, guests like you, others are actors mingling with the group as fellow guests.
The reception had a cash bar for soda, beer, wine and cocktails, and open service of coffee and hot tea. The hot hors d'oeuvres were veggie spring rolls and veggie quesadillas. Both were tasty, but a bit soft - the travails of serving them in a chafing dish, I suppose.
Dinner started with a nice mixed green salad with mushrooms, carrots, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes. A light vinaigrette was available on the table, as were rolls and butter.
Between courses, mystery action occurred, and during the meal, we were given clues to review and opportunity to discuss with our fellow guests.
We had a choice of entree (which you reserve when you purchase your tickets), and we wanted to try each they had to offer: tri tip with peppercorn sauce, Alaskan king salmon with lemon butter, and chicken marsala. The servings were very generous (for example, you got a whole chicken breast not just a half), and came with rather plain mashed potatoes, and large servings of carrots and broccoli. The meats were tender and their accompanying sauces were tasty, but we wished we had more of the sauce. There was also a pasta primavera (vegetarian) option that someone else at our table had, but they were not very pleased with it.
The murder mystery comes to a crescendo during the next break, and over dessert, you are given an answer sheet to identify who you think is the killer and why. Dessert was a very tasty double fudge chocolate cake served over caramel and raspberry sauces.
As we're wrapping up dessert, the detectives return to announce who did it and why. And then the host announces the winner who correctly deduced the killer and motive.
It was all very light-hearted and good fun, and the food was pretty good, too. The service seemed right on time and very responsive. I would recommend the show and the venue.
Gaffey Street Diner, San Pedro, CA
Gaffey Street Diner
247 N. Gaffey St, San Pedro, CA 90731
310-548-6964
http://www.gaffeystreetdiner.com/
Parking available in their small lot, and some street parking. Can be very crowded for weekend breakfast.
Casual/family friendly. Large, well lit dining room.
Visited: January 2010, Dinner, Dine-in
You may have seen Guy Fieri visit the Gaffey Street Diner on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, and it's definitely worth the visit. The Diner used to be only open for breakfast and lunch, but they've recently expanded their hours, and are now open for dinner.
The first thing of note (besides everyone being really friendly) is that the portions are very large. Almost everything on the menu is homemade, and you wish you could finish the entire portion. We were very happy with everything we ordered, and would definitely go back for dinner, and try it out for breakfast.
First, we had the dinner plate of Country Fried Steak & Gravy ($9.95) served with a choice of french fries, mashed or baked potato, and vegges with garlic bread or dinner roll. We got the mashed potatoes - very tasty unto themselves, but topped with the creamy Country Gravy - yum! The steak was mild in flavor, but very tender with a nice crust. Overall, a very satisfying meal.
Under sandwich specialties, we tried the Open Faced Hot Beef Sandwich ($9.75) which consists of many many slices of tender beef on top of soft white bread that is an amazing sponge for the tasty bearnaise brown gravy. The sandwich is also topped with crisp lightly battered onion rings which are just the right accompaniment for the meat and gravy. In addition, the plate is completed with those homemade mashed potatoes and a generous serving of veggies (broccoli, carrots and zucchini).
Several breakfast items are also available at dinner, and we got the Country Fried Steak and Eggs ($10.25). It's the same lightly seasoned but tasty steak with the addition of 2 extra large eggs (which we got nicely scrambled) and choice of side: home fries, spanish rice, refried beans, cottage cheese, peach halves, or sliced tomato. We got the very tasty home fries - potato chunks cooked with bell peppers and onions and flavored with seasoned salt. You also get a choice of toast, tortillas or biscuit. We chose the biscuit, and boy, were we glad that we did. It's about the size of 3 or 4 biscuits that you get anywhere else; a perfect size to share. The biscuit was fluffy and full of flavor all on its own.
As a frequent orderer of hot tea ($1.95), I also want to point out that for service, they brought a mug full of hot water as well as a little teapot of water. Something that I wish more restaurants would do.
247 N. Gaffey St, San Pedro, CA 90731
310-548-6964
http://www.gaffeystreetdiner.com/
Parking available in their small lot, and some street parking. Can be very crowded for weekend breakfast.
Casual/family friendly. Large, well lit dining room.
Visited: January 2010, Dinner, Dine-in
You may have seen Guy Fieri visit the Gaffey Street Diner on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, and it's definitely worth the visit. The Diner used to be only open for breakfast and lunch, but they've recently expanded their hours, and are now open for dinner.
The first thing of note (besides everyone being really friendly) is that the portions are very large. Almost everything on the menu is homemade, and you wish you could finish the entire portion. We were very happy with everything we ordered, and would definitely go back for dinner, and try it out for breakfast.
First, we had the dinner plate of Country Fried Steak & Gravy ($9.95) served with a choice of french fries, mashed or baked potato, and vegges with garlic bread or dinner roll. We got the mashed potatoes - very tasty unto themselves, but topped with the creamy Country Gravy - yum! The steak was mild in flavor, but very tender with a nice crust. Overall, a very satisfying meal.
Under sandwich specialties, we tried the Open Faced Hot Beef Sandwich ($9.75) which consists of many many slices of tender beef on top of soft white bread that is an amazing sponge for the tasty bearnaise brown gravy. The sandwich is also topped with crisp lightly battered onion rings which are just the right accompaniment for the meat and gravy. In addition, the plate is completed with those homemade mashed potatoes and a generous serving of veggies (broccoli, carrots and zucchini).
Several breakfast items are also available at dinner, and we got the Country Fried Steak and Eggs ($10.25). It's the same lightly seasoned but tasty steak with the addition of 2 extra large eggs (which we got nicely scrambled) and choice of side: home fries, spanish rice, refried beans, cottage cheese, peach halves, or sliced tomato. We got the very tasty home fries - potato chunks cooked with bell peppers and onions and flavored with seasoned salt. You also get a choice of toast, tortillas or biscuit. We chose the biscuit, and boy, were we glad that we did. It's about the size of 3 or 4 biscuits that you get anywhere else; a perfect size to share. The biscuit was fluffy and full of flavor all on its own.
As a frequent orderer of hot tea ($1.95), I also want to point out that for service, they brought a mug full of hot water as well as a little teapot of water. Something that I wish more restaurants would do.
Friday, January 8, 2010
'Y' Not Burgers, Torrance, CA
'Y' Not Burgers
22940 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA 90505
310-375-4202
http://www.ynotburgers.com/
At the corner of Hawthorne and 230th. Usually plenty of parking in their lot.
Fast food. Plenty of indoor booth seating. Drive-through also. Very friendly.
Visited: Numerous times over the years; usually take out.
Most recently: August 2009
'Y' Not is a local landmark serving you any kind of burger you want - beef, turkey, ostrich, buffalo and garden with all the assorted trimmings.
They also serve a great hot Pastrami Sandwich ($5.85) on a French roll, and wonderful BLT ($5.10).
Their French fries are always cooked well, and if you're in a particularly evil mood, you have to get the Chili Cheese Fries ($4.55). An amazing portion of really good badness.
'Y' Not also serves breakfast, and we highly recommend the Breakfast Burrito - egg, cheese, salsa, and either bacon, ham or sausage ($4.50). There's quite a bit of salsa on the burrito, but it's very tasty and very filling. If you get a burrito for breakfast, you probably won't need to have lunch.
In all, a great local place that folks have been coming to for years.
22940 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA 90505
310-375-4202
http://www.ynotburgers.com/
At the corner of Hawthorne and 230th. Usually plenty of parking in their lot.
Fast food. Plenty of indoor booth seating. Drive-through also. Very friendly.
Visited: Numerous times over the years; usually take out.
Most recently: August 2009
'Y' Not is a local landmark serving you any kind of burger you want - beef, turkey, ostrich, buffalo and garden with all the assorted trimmings.
They also serve a great hot Pastrami Sandwich ($5.85) on a French roll, and wonderful BLT ($5.10).
Their French fries are always cooked well, and if you're in a particularly evil mood, you have to get the Chili Cheese Fries ($4.55). An amazing portion of really good badness.
'Y' Not also serves breakfast, and we highly recommend the Breakfast Burrito - egg, cheese, salsa, and either bacon, ham or sausage ($4.50). There's quite a bit of salsa on the burrito, but it's very tasty and very filling. If you get a burrito for breakfast, you probably won't need to have lunch.
In all, a great local place that folks have been coming to for years.
Kincaid's, Redondo Beach, CA
Kincaid's Fish, Chop and Steak House
500 The Pier, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
310-318-6080
http://www.kincaids.com/
Located on the upper level of the Redondo Pier. Plenty of validated pay parking.
Locations across the US.
Higher end dining. Reservations recommended for holidays and weekend evenings.
Visited: Numerous times; Dinner (usually), Dine-in
Most recently: November 2009
Kincaid's is located at the Pier, and so has a beautiful view of the Pier boardwalks and the Pacific Ocean. They have an extensive seafood and meats menu that changes based on the season or what's fresh. I think everything we've had has been great.
They start you with a warm garlic bread - similar to a soft or thin focaccia. Very buttery and tasty.
The French Onion Soup and the Salmon Bisque are both excellent, and can be quite filling. They also often have a soup special, and I've had the thick and tasty (yet a little too sweet) Butternut Squash Soup in the past.
The Prime Rib and Filet Mignon are both tender and excellent. If they have the Trio of Brochettes (sometimes seafood, sometimes surf and turf), get it. It's an excellent and beautiful sampling. The seafood is always good, and changes regularly. We've had the salmon, scallops, stuffed mahi mahi, and it's all been tasty.
Most of the entrees are complete meals with a starch and veg, however there are a few sides that you can add on. These are portioned to share. We like the Mac and Cheese (with bacon) a lot.
Desserts are also very good, and you may need to plan ahead to make sure you still have room! We like the Creme Brulee, Chocolate Cake, and the Pear Bread Pudding.
If you visit their website to view the menu, it really short changes how extensive the menu really is. I think this is because so much of their menu is seasonal or du jour, that it's hard to post regularly online.
500 The Pier, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
310-318-6080
http://www.kincaids.com/
Located on the upper level of the Redondo Pier. Plenty of validated pay parking.
Locations across the US.
Higher end dining. Reservations recommended for holidays and weekend evenings.
Visited: Numerous times; Dinner (usually), Dine-in
Most recently: November 2009
Kincaid's is located at the Pier, and so has a beautiful view of the Pier boardwalks and the Pacific Ocean. They have an extensive seafood and meats menu that changes based on the season or what's fresh. I think everything we've had has been great.
They start you with a warm garlic bread - similar to a soft or thin focaccia. Very buttery and tasty.
The French Onion Soup and the Salmon Bisque are both excellent, and can be quite filling. They also often have a soup special, and I've had the thick and tasty (yet a little too sweet) Butternut Squash Soup in the past.
The Prime Rib and Filet Mignon are both tender and excellent. If they have the Trio of Brochettes (sometimes seafood, sometimes surf and turf), get it. It's an excellent and beautiful sampling. The seafood is always good, and changes regularly. We've had the salmon, scallops, stuffed mahi mahi, and it's all been tasty.
Most of the entrees are complete meals with a starch and veg, however there are a few sides that you can add on. These are portioned to share. We like the Mac and Cheese (with bacon) a lot.
Desserts are also very good, and you may need to plan ahead to make sure you still have room! We like the Creme Brulee, Chocolate Cake, and the Pear Bread Pudding.
If you visit their website to view the menu, it really short changes how extensive the menu really is. I think this is because so much of their menu is seasonal or du jour, that it's hard to post regularly online.
Philippe The Original, Los Angeles, CA
Philippe The Original
1001 N. Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
213-628-3181
http://www.philippes.com/
On the corner at Ord St near Chinatowon, the Post Office Annex, Union Station, and Olvera St.
Free parking in the lot behing Philippe's and across Ord St.
Casual.
Visited: Numerous times over 30 years; Dine in and Take Out
Most recently: March 2009
Philippe's is the home of the Original French Dipped Sandwich. Philippe's has been around since 1908, and is an LA landmark. Many generations of families have included Philippe's in their own traditions. For many, no trip to Dodger Stadium is complete without a stop at Philippe's.
It's best to go in at least pairs. One person to find and stand in line to order at the counter; glass cases enticing you with side salads and desserts. And when you're a kid, you're short enough to watch the ladies making your yummy sandwich through the glass. The other person to find a seat in the massive dining room, mostly filled with long communal tables and stools, and sawdust on the floor.
You can tell that some of the ladies have been there for decades, and I bet some of them have even served me when I was a little girl!
Our favorite is the Beef Sandwich ($5.55), Double Dipped (both halves of the French roll are dipped in the jus). Sometimes we add cheese (American, Jack or Swiss) for 55c. Another family favorite is the Pork Sandwich ($5.55), Double Dipped. We've also tried the Lamb ($6.75), Double Dipped, but it just didn't pack the same punch as the beef. They also offer a Turkey sandwich, but even after all of these years, we still haven't tried it yet.
They also offer chili, stew, soups, and breakfast, which seem to be very popular, but quite honestly, the sandwiches are so good, we haven't strayed.
Philippe's is also known for its Hot Mustard which used to be set out in the communinal dining space in these cute little jars with the special mustard dauber, but now they come in squeeze bottles. Just not quite the same feel. Jars are available for purchase.
As sides we often get the Potato Salad, Macaroni Salad or Coleslaw ($1.10). Philippe's also has a great assortment of old timey sides like pickled eggs (bright purple jars!), pickled pigs feet, and pickles.
Their lemonade is really tasty, and they serve an assortment of wines and beers. And coffee is still only 9 cents.
For dessert, they have a lovely display of pies, Balian ice cream, classic baked apples, and my favorite, the baked Custard Cup ($2.15) with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
It's nice to have some things never change.
1001 N. Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
213-628-3181
http://www.philippes.com/
On the corner at Ord St near Chinatowon, the Post Office Annex, Union Station, and Olvera St.
Free parking in the lot behing Philippe's and across Ord St.
Casual.
Visited: Numerous times over 30 years; Dine in and Take Out
Most recently: March 2009
Philippe's is the home of the Original French Dipped Sandwich. Philippe's has been around since 1908, and is an LA landmark. Many generations of families have included Philippe's in their own traditions. For many, no trip to Dodger Stadium is complete without a stop at Philippe's.
It's best to go in at least pairs. One person to find and stand in line to order at the counter; glass cases enticing you with side salads and desserts. And when you're a kid, you're short enough to watch the ladies making your yummy sandwich through the glass. The other person to find a seat in the massive dining room, mostly filled with long communal tables and stools, and sawdust on the floor.
You can tell that some of the ladies have been there for decades, and I bet some of them have even served me when I was a little girl!
Our favorite is the Beef Sandwich ($5.55), Double Dipped (both halves of the French roll are dipped in the jus). Sometimes we add cheese (American, Jack or Swiss) for 55c. Another family favorite is the Pork Sandwich ($5.55), Double Dipped. We've also tried the Lamb ($6.75), Double Dipped, but it just didn't pack the same punch as the beef. They also offer a Turkey sandwich, but even after all of these years, we still haven't tried it yet.
They also offer chili, stew, soups, and breakfast, which seem to be very popular, but quite honestly, the sandwiches are so good, we haven't strayed.
Philippe's is also known for its Hot Mustard which used to be set out in the communinal dining space in these cute little jars with the special mustard dauber, but now they come in squeeze bottles. Just not quite the same feel. Jars are available for purchase.
As sides we often get the Potato Salad, Macaroni Salad or Coleslaw ($1.10). Philippe's also has a great assortment of old timey sides like pickled eggs (bright purple jars!), pickled pigs feet, and pickles.
Their lemonade is really tasty, and they serve an assortment of wines and beers. And coffee is still only 9 cents.
For dessert, they have a lovely display of pies, Balian ice cream, classic baked apples, and my favorite, the baked Custard Cup ($2.15) with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
It's nice to have some things never change.
Rascals Teriyaki Grill, Torrance, CA
Rascals Teriyaki Grill
5111 Torrance Blvd, Torrance, CA 90503
310-542-0022
http://www.rascalsteriyaki.com/
Free parking in lot, however can be very crowded during meal times.
Additional locations in Gardena and Long Beach.
Closed Sundays.
Casual/fast foodish. Order and pick up at the counter.
Visited: Numerous times; Usually take-out
Most recently: June 2010
Rascals is a teri grill with a decidedy Hawaiian bent. They do a brisk business, and everything is super fresh.
Our favorites are the Chinese Chicken Salads ($5.15, $6.75) with shredded chicken breast, cucumbers, green onion, and the cruchies are rice noodles and almond slivers. The dressing is tangy with a hint of sesame. Party trays of this salad are very popular for parties, but we think you actually get more 'stuff' if you order the individual salads.
And the Teri Burgers ($3.95) on a soft bun with lettuce, tomatoes, soft onions, pickles, and mayo. The burger also comes with extra teri sauce, which we find we need.
Also very good is the Teri Beef (Bowl $5.75, Plate $6.95, Deluxe With Salad $8.10). The Teri Chicken isn't bad, but we prefer the Beef.
The Curry Bowl (Chix $5.35, Beef $5.75, Veg $5.15) is also pretty tasty as is the Chili and Rice ($3.95).
Because they're usually so crowded during meal times, we often call ahead and Rascals has a separate pick up line for called in orders.
5111 Torrance Blvd, Torrance, CA 90503
310-542-0022
http://www.rascalsteriyaki.com/
Free parking in lot, however can be very crowded during meal times.
Additional locations in Gardena and Long Beach.
Closed Sundays.
Casual/fast foodish. Order and pick up at the counter.
Visited: Numerous times; Usually take-out
Most recently: June 2010
Rascals is a teri grill with a decidedy Hawaiian bent. They do a brisk business, and everything is super fresh.
Our favorites are the Chinese Chicken Salads ($5.15, $6.75) with shredded chicken breast, cucumbers, green onion, and the cruchies are rice noodles and almond slivers. The dressing is tangy with a hint of sesame. Party trays of this salad are very popular for parties, but we think you actually get more 'stuff' if you order the individual salads.
And the Teri Burgers ($3.95) on a soft bun with lettuce, tomatoes, soft onions, pickles, and mayo. The burger also comes with extra teri sauce, which we find we need.
Also very good is the Teri Beef (Bowl $5.75, Plate $6.95, Deluxe With Salad $8.10). The Teri Chicken isn't bad, but we prefer the Beef.
The Curry Bowl (Chix $5.35, Beef $5.75, Veg $5.15) is also pretty tasty as is the Chili and Rice ($3.95).
Because they're usually so crowded during meal times, we often call ahead and Rascals has a separate pick up line for called in orders.
Fleming's Steakhouse, El Segundo, CA
Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar
2301 Rosecrans Ave, El Segundo, CA
310-643-6911
http://www.flemingssteakhouse.com/
Locations throughout Southern California and the US.
Valet parking in front; free self parking behind the restaurant in the structure.
Higher end. Option of black napkin, if preferred. Full bar. Can be dark inside.
Visited: Numerous times, Dinner, Dine-in
Most recently: December 2009
We've been to Fleming's several times at this location, and every time except once, the service has been exceptional. The food has always been scrumptious. Entrees and sides are ordered separately, and sides are definitely large enough to share. Due to the pricepoint, this usually a special occasion restaurant.
Our favorite salads are the Fresh Mozzarella and Sweet Tomato - a classic Caprese served with fresh basil leaves, balsamic, and olive oil. And the Fleming's Salad is a real treat - greens, dried cranberries, grape tomatoes, croutons and candied walnuts in a light vinaigrette. They used to have a Warm Spinach Mushroom Salad which was velvety good; still hoping they'll bring that back.
Our favorite meats are the Filet Mignon and Prime Ribeye. The Seared Scallops, while tasty, were a bit disappointing in their size compared with the quality of the other entrees.
On Sundays, they have a special dinner menu of Prime Rib served au jus and with two additional sauces. The dinner starts with a choice of The Wedge, Fleming's or Caesar Salad, one side dish and dessert. A great piece of meat, and a great value for the set menu.
They also have seasonal prix fixe menus which have been very tasty.
Be sure to listen to specials. Some notable items have been the Bone-In Filet Mignon - an amazing piece of meat that is cooked well and literally fork tender. Also tasty was the Macadamia-Crusted Chilean Sea Bass served with asparagus. Often there is a Mixed Grill special - meats or surf and turf that sound tasty.
Our favorite sides are the Fleming's Potatoes - scallopped potatoes with jalapeno and topped with cheddar cheese and the Chipotle Cheddar Macaroni & Cheese - with a nice little kick. The thick tower of Onion Rings is also good, but a lot of onion rings. The Grilled Asparagus, Sauteed Mushrooms, and Creamed Spinach are also tasty.
For dessert, the Chocolate Lava Cake is very good and requires a pre-order during your entree. The Creme Brulee is also a nice finish to the evening if you have room.
They also have an extensive collection of wines and aged Scotches.
2301 Rosecrans Ave, El Segundo, CA
310-643-6911
http://www.flemingssteakhouse.com/
Locations throughout Southern California and the US.
Valet parking in front; free self parking behind the restaurant in the structure.
Higher end. Option of black napkin, if preferred. Full bar. Can be dark inside.
Visited: Numerous times, Dinner, Dine-in
Most recently: December 2009
We've been to Fleming's several times at this location, and every time except once, the service has been exceptional. The food has always been scrumptious. Entrees and sides are ordered separately, and sides are definitely large enough to share. Due to the pricepoint, this usually a special occasion restaurant.
Our favorite salads are the Fresh Mozzarella and Sweet Tomato - a classic Caprese served with fresh basil leaves, balsamic, and olive oil. And the Fleming's Salad is a real treat - greens, dried cranberries, grape tomatoes, croutons and candied walnuts in a light vinaigrette. They used to have a Warm Spinach Mushroom Salad which was velvety good; still hoping they'll bring that back.
Our favorite meats are the Filet Mignon and Prime Ribeye. The Seared Scallops, while tasty, were a bit disappointing in their size compared with the quality of the other entrees.
On Sundays, they have a special dinner menu of Prime Rib served au jus and with two additional sauces. The dinner starts with a choice of The Wedge, Fleming's or Caesar Salad, one side dish and dessert. A great piece of meat, and a great value for the set menu.
They also have seasonal prix fixe menus which have been very tasty.
Be sure to listen to specials. Some notable items have been the Bone-In Filet Mignon - an amazing piece of meat that is cooked well and literally fork tender. Also tasty was the Macadamia-Crusted Chilean Sea Bass served with asparagus. Often there is a Mixed Grill special - meats or surf and turf that sound tasty.
Our favorite sides are the Fleming's Potatoes - scallopped potatoes with jalapeno and topped with cheddar cheese and the Chipotle Cheddar Macaroni & Cheese - with a nice little kick. The thick tower of Onion Rings is also good, but a lot of onion rings. The Grilled Asparagus, Sauteed Mushrooms, and Creamed Spinach are also tasty.
For dessert, the Chocolate Lava Cake is very good and requires a pre-order during your entree. The Creme Brulee is also a nice finish to the evening if you have room.
They also have an extensive collection of wines and aged Scotches.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
El Burrito, Jr, Torrance, CA
El Burrito, Jr
Full Service Locations:
21141 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA 90503 (at Torrance Blvd in the Albertsons strip mall), 310-944-9200
3830 Pacific Coast Highway, Torrance, CA 90505 (former Taco Bell, next to McDonald's), 310-373-5404
Walk-Up Locations (with limited covered outdoor seating):
919 S. Pacific Coast Highway, Redondo Beach, CA 90277, 310-316-5058
1865 Pacific Coast Highway, Lomita, CA 90717, 310-326-6513
Visited: Numerous times; Eat in and take out
Most recently: February 2010
We usually eat in at the West Torrance location (90503), however the food at all of the locations is consistent and equally tasty.
Table service starts with fried full-size corn tortilla chips (you need to break them up yourself) and the homemade fresh salsa which is not for the tame. The salsa is usually pretty zippy, and is so popular that people buy it by the quart.
Interestingly, nothing else is deep fried. The taquitos, tacos, and chimichangas are finished on the griddle, and this adds a different spin on those traditional items.
Particular favorites are Combos #1: Enchilada and a Taco with beans or #3: 2 Enchiladas and a Taco. We usually get cheese enchiladas and shredded beef tacos. Also Combo #27: the Chimichanga with rice and beans. The chimi usually comes with shredded beef, picadollo beef, ground beef or chicken, but you can also order it with carne asada for an extra buck or two, and it's worth it.
The Machaca and eggs plate is also very tasty, although sometimes the bell peppers and onions aren't quite as cooked as much as I like them.
The Carnitas are also good, and come as a plate or in burritos. The Super Deluxe Burritos (where the rice and beans are inside the burrito, and served wet) are also great.
EBJ has the yummiest beans around - so rich and creamy, they're like gravy! Most of the entrees come with beans, or you can get a Bean Burrito with cheese. Scrumptious! EBJ's beans are our gold standard, and we pretty much compare everyone else's beans to EBJ!
Full Service Locations:
21141 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA 90503 (at Torrance Blvd in the Albertsons strip mall), 310-944-9200
3830 Pacific Coast Highway, Torrance, CA 90505 (former Taco Bell, next to McDonald's), 310-373-5404
Walk-Up Locations (with limited covered outdoor seating):
919 S. Pacific Coast Highway, Redondo Beach, CA 90277, 310-316-5058
1865 Pacific Coast Highway, Lomita, CA 90717, 310-326-6513
Visited: Numerous times; Eat in and take out
Most recently: February 2010
We usually eat in at the West Torrance location (90503), however the food at all of the locations is consistent and equally tasty.
Table service starts with fried full-size corn tortilla chips (you need to break them up yourself) and the homemade fresh salsa which is not for the tame. The salsa is usually pretty zippy, and is so popular that people buy it by the quart.
Interestingly, nothing else is deep fried. The taquitos, tacos, and chimichangas are finished on the griddle, and this adds a different spin on those traditional items.
Particular favorites are Combos #1: Enchilada and a Taco with beans or #3: 2 Enchiladas and a Taco. We usually get cheese enchiladas and shredded beef tacos. Also Combo #27: the Chimichanga with rice and beans. The chimi usually comes with shredded beef, picadollo beef, ground beef or chicken, but you can also order it with carne asada for an extra buck or two, and it's worth it.
The Machaca and eggs plate is also very tasty, although sometimes the bell peppers and onions aren't quite as cooked as much as I like them.
The Carnitas are also good, and come as a plate or in burritos. The Super Deluxe Burritos (where the rice and beans are inside the burrito, and served wet) are also great.
EBJ has the yummiest beans around - so rich and creamy, they're like gravy! Most of the entrees come with beans, or you can get a Bean Burrito with cheese. Scrumptious! EBJ's beans are our gold standard, and we pretty much compare everyone else's beans to EBJ!
Suzy's Bar and Grill, Hermosa Beach, CA
Suzy's Bar and Grill
1141 Aviation Blvd, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
310-379-6171
At the corner of Prospect in the Big Lots strip mall. Plenty of parking.
Casual.
Visited: Numerous times; Dinner, dine-in
Most recently: June 2010
Suzy's has entertainment most evenings - live music or Team Trivia (on Wednesdays), and they also have pretty good food including traditional bar food like Wings or Chicken Tenders (spicy, bbq or teriyaki), Nachos (plain, Steak or Chicken), and Mozzarella Sticks.
The Quesadillas are also good - choice of Cheese, Veggie or Steak, and comes with the house salsa. Even their Chips and Salsa are worth trying - a great homemade peppery salsa that you can't find anywhere else.
Their Double Dubiak Burger is exceptional. The grilled beef patties have so much flavor, it's amazing. You can order as is, or add onions. The burger comes with chips, but you can choose to add fries or onion rings.
The Fries or thick panko-covered Onion Rings are often a little pale for our liking, so we usually order then well done. However, the Sweet Potato Fries come out just right.
The BBQ Chicken Wrap is also a tasty option. Grilled chicken, bbq sauce, bacon, and tomato wrapped in a toasted tortilla. Very tasty. Comes with chips.
We also like the Beef Stroganoff - a more garlicky version than you'll usually find elsewhere. It's made with rigatoni, mushrooms, tri tip and grilled garlic bread.
The Vodka Rigatoni is also very satisfying - comes with chicken or meatless, and served with garlic bread. It's a pleasant pink sauce -not too tomatoey, not too creamy.
Also tasty is the Benny Burger. A burger with Swiss cheese, bacon, tomato, lettuce and 1000 island on grilled sourdough. Served with chips.
They also have a variety of Philly Cheesesteaks with your choice of toppings. Wyatt's Works is a favorite - loaded with peppers, onions, mushrooms and cheese. We sometimes order with extra cheese. Sometimes the bread can be a little too fluffy for my preference, but it still tastes good.
The Fettucine Alfredo is actually served with linguine but is still very tasty. The sauce is lightly creamy, very garlicky, and has mushrooms. Choice of beautiful shrimp or chicken breast.
Not on the menu but a frequent special are the BBQ Ribs served with fries and a side salad. The ribs are very tender, and have a nice grilled smoky flavor.
The Tortilla Soup comes with chicken, rice, veggies, and topped with avocado slices. The soup is very tasty and has a bit of a spicy kick. Very satisfying.
There are even more items on the menu, and most are pretty good.
Note: beer and wine only, no hard alcohol.
If you're a regular, the bartenders/servers really get to know you and your order. Nice and friendly.
1141 Aviation Blvd, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
310-379-6171
At the corner of Prospect in the Big Lots strip mall. Plenty of parking.
Casual.
Visited: Numerous times; Dinner, dine-in
Most recently: June 2010
Suzy's has entertainment most evenings - live music or Team Trivia (on Wednesdays), and they also have pretty good food including traditional bar food like Wings or Chicken Tenders (spicy, bbq or teriyaki), Nachos (plain, Steak or Chicken), and Mozzarella Sticks.
The Quesadillas are also good - choice of Cheese, Veggie or Steak, and comes with the house salsa. Even their Chips and Salsa are worth trying - a great homemade peppery salsa that you can't find anywhere else.
Their Double Dubiak Burger is exceptional. The grilled beef patties have so much flavor, it's amazing. You can order as is, or add onions. The burger comes with chips, but you can choose to add fries or onion rings.
The Fries or thick panko-covered Onion Rings are often a little pale for our liking, so we usually order then well done. However, the Sweet Potato Fries come out just right.
The BBQ Chicken Wrap is also a tasty option. Grilled chicken, bbq sauce, bacon, and tomato wrapped in a toasted tortilla. Very tasty. Comes with chips.
We also like the Beef Stroganoff - a more garlicky version than you'll usually find elsewhere. It's made with rigatoni, mushrooms, tri tip and grilled garlic bread.
The Vodka Rigatoni is also very satisfying - comes with chicken or meatless, and served with garlic bread. It's a pleasant pink sauce -not too tomatoey, not too creamy.
Also tasty is the Benny Burger. A burger with Swiss cheese, bacon, tomato, lettuce and 1000 island on grilled sourdough. Served with chips.
They also have a variety of Philly Cheesesteaks with your choice of toppings. Wyatt's Works is a favorite - loaded with peppers, onions, mushrooms and cheese. We sometimes order with extra cheese. Sometimes the bread can be a little too fluffy for my preference, but it still tastes good.
The Fettucine Alfredo is actually served with linguine but is still very tasty. The sauce is lightly creamy, very garlicky, and has mushrooms. Choice of beautiful shrimp or chicken breast.
Not on the menu but a frequent special are the BBQ Ribs served with fries and a side salad. The ribs are very tender, and have a nice grilled smoky flavor.
The Tortilla Soup comes with chicken, rice, veggies, and topped with avocado slices. The soup is very tasty and has a bit of a spicy kick. Very satisfying.
There are even more items on the menu, and most are pretty good.
Note: beer and wine only, no hard alcohol.
If you're a regular, the bartenders/servers really get to know you and your order. Nice and friendly.
Ports O'Call Restaurant, San Pedro, CA
Ports O'Call Restaurant
Ports O'Call, Berth 76, San Pedro, CA 90731
http://www.portsocalldining.com/
Located near the southern end of the Ports O'Call. Plenty of free parking.
Higher end. Reservations recommended for holidays, brunch and weekend evenings.
Visited: December 2009, Lunch, Dine-in
The Ports O'Call Restaurant is located on the water with a lovely view of the boats, tugs, cruise ships, and freighters that enter and exit the Los Angeles Port. It's a great special occasion restaurant, and also has a lovely Sunday Brunch.
We thoroughly enjoyed our lunch - it was a beautiful day to watch the waterway and its various birds, and the food was great as well. The menu is pretty stable, but may change around the holidays for special treats.
To start, the restaurant serves warm crispy baguettes with butter and a pesto parmesan dip. I'm such a sucker for warm bread, and the pesto was a nice touch.
I started with the special Lobster Bisque that came with two shrimp. Because the broth was based on cioppino, it had much more depth than your usual bisque. Rich and amazing. Great with the baguettes.
The Stacked 10 oz Prime Rib Sandwich ($12.00) served au jus was amazing. It comes on a lovely toasted baguette and topped with crispy onion rings and a garlic-cream cheese spread. Served with a choice of side French Fried Potatoes, Creole Cole Slaw or Mashed Potatoes, and we chose the Fries, a generous serving. The meat was super tender, and it was a very satisfying and filling sandwich.
Another very satisying entree is the Seafood Combo Tempura ($11.00), a lovely lightly battered combination of 2 shrimp, 2 scallops, fish, and a mountain of fries. The combo is served with the House Tartar Sauce and ketchup.
A holiday seasonal special was the Grilled Halibut served with shrimp with a light beurre blanc, roasted corn mashed potatoes (little bits of roasted corn kernals mixed with the potatoes) and asparagus. This really was a heavenly mixture.
We also ordered a couple sides to share (not that we needed them; the entree portions were plenty): the special Macaroni and Cheese and the Spinach with Bacon. Both were very tasty, and we would definitely order them again if offered.
It's been a long time since we attended the brunch, and that will be on our agenda soon.
Ports O'Call, Berth 76, San Pedro, CA 90731
http://www.portsocalldining.com/
Located near the southern end of the Ports O'Call. Plenty of free parking.
Higher end. Reservations recommended for holidays, brunch and weekend evenings.
Visited: December 2009, Lunch, Dine-in
The Ports O'Call Restaurant is located on the water with a lovely view of the boats, tugs, cruise ships, and freighters that enter and exit the Los Angeles Port. It's a great special occasion restaurant, and also has a lovely Sunday Brunch.
We thoroughly enjoyed our lunch - it was a beautiful day to watch the waterway and its various birds, and the food was great as well. The menu is pretty stable, but may change around the holidays for special treats.
To start, the restaurant serves warm crispy baguettes with butter and a pesto parmesan dip. I'm such a sucker for warm bread, and the pesto was a nice touch.
I started with the special Lobster Bisque that came with two shrimp. Because the broth was based on cioppino, it had much more depth than your usual bisque. Rich and amazing. Great with the baguettes.
The Stacked 10 oz Prime Rib Sandwich ($12.00) served au jus was amazing. It comes on a lovely toasted baguette and topped with crispy onion rings and a garlic-cream cheese spread. Served with a choice of side French Fried Potatoes, Creole Cole Slaw or Mashed Potatoes, and we chose the Fries, a generous serving. The meat was super tender, and it was a very satisfying and filling sandwich.
Another very satisying entree is the Seafood Combo Tempura ($11.00), a lovely lightly battered combination of 2 shrimp, 2 scallops, fish, and a mountain of fries. The combo is served with the House Tartar Sauce and ketchup.
A holiday seasonal special was the Grilled Halibut served with shrimp with a light beurre blanc, roasted corn mashed potatoes (little bits of roasted corn kernals mixed with the potatoes) and asparagus. This really was a heavenly mixture.
We also ordered a couple sides to share (not that we needed them; the entree portions were plenty): the special Macaroni and Cheese and the Spinach with Bacon. Both were very tasty, and we would definitely order them again if offered.
It's been a long time since we attended the brunch, and that will be on our agenda soon.
Versailles, Miami, FL
Versailles Cuban Restaurant
3555 SW Eighth Street (Calle Ocho), Little Havana, Miami, FL 33135
305-444-0240
Plenty of parking in around the restaurant and its associated bakery and cafe.
Casual.
Visited: March 2009, Dinner, Dine-in
We were under the impression that our beloved Versailles in LA was somehow related to this original establishment in Miami. However, after sampling the fare in Miami, there is no comparison to the garlicky goodness that we are accustomed to, in fact, barely any garlicky goodness.
We tried the Roasted Garlic Chicken and the Macitas de Puerco Fritas, our Cuban fare favorites, and while the meal was just fine, the portion sizes were much smaller, and the mojo de ajo was hardly visible and didn't have much taste. As we understand, there are different standards for Cuban fare, but we prefer our garlicky goodness that we can get at our home Versailles.
However, we would come back to visit the Versailles Bakery and Sandwich Shop or the Pastry and Coffee Counter for some amazing Cuban coffee served traditionally in those tiny little paper cups to share. Sidewalk seating is great for people watching.
3555 SW Eighth Street (Calle Ocho), Little Havana, Miami, FL 33135
305-444-0240
Plenty of parking in around the restaurant and its associated bakery and cafe.
Casual.
Visited: March 2009, Dinner, Dine-in
We were under the impression that our beloved Versailles in LA was somehow related to this original establishment in Miami. However, after sampling the fare in Miami, there is no comparison to the garlicky goodness that we are accustomed to, in fact, barely any garlicky goodness.
We tried the Roasted Garlic Chicken and the Macitas de Puerco Fritas, our Cuban fare favorites, and while the meal was just fine, the portion sizes were much smaller, and the mojo de ajo was hardly visible and didn't have much taste. As we understand, there are different standards for Cuban fare, but we prefer our garlicky goodness that we can get at our home Versailles.
However, we would come back to visit the Versailles Bakery and Sandwich Shop or the Pastry and Coffee Counter for some amazing Cuban coffee served traditionally in those tiny little paper cups to share. Sidewalk seating is great for people watching.
Randy's Donuts, Inglewood, CA
Randy's Donuts
805 W. Manchester Ave, Inglewood, CA 90301
http://randys-donuts.com/
On the northwest corner at La Cienega. Plenty of parking, and two drive-throughs.
Visited: Breakfast and Dessert, Take-Out
Most recently: November 2009
You totally know Randy's - it's the iconic LA landmark with the giant donut on its roof seen in practically every TV show or movie that is panning images of LA. Well, we finally went for the first time, and yes, the donuts are quite good.
We tried several of our favorites: Raised Glazed, Glazed Twist, Chocolate Raised, Coconut Raised (a little different style than other places - less snowball-like), and Devil's Food. They also have French Donuts which most donut shops do not have anymore.
They also have the other traditional donuts (jelly and custard filled, buttermilk cruellers, old fashioned, cheese, etc), muffins, cinnamon rolls, a few breakfast sandwiches, a few fancy coffees, and some other interesting items like the Apple Crepe (a crepe filled with cinnamon apples then deep fried and coated with cinnamon sugar).
Randy's is open 24 hours to satisfy that donut craving. Walk up (no seating) or drive through.
805 W. Manchester Ave, Inglewood, CA 90301
http://randys-donuts.com/
On the northwest corner at La Cienega. Plenty of parking, and two drive-throughs.
Visited: Breakfast and Dessert, Take-Out
Most recently: November 2009
You totally know Randy's - it's the iconic LA landmark with the giant donut on its roof seen in practically every TV show or movie that is panning images of LA. Well, we finally went for the first time, and yes, the donuts are quite good.
We tried several of our favorites: Raised Glazed, Glazed Twist, Chocolate Raised, Coconut Raised (a little different style than other places - less snowball-like), and Devil's Food. They also have French Donuts which most donut shops do not have anymore.
They also have the other traditional donuts (jelly and custard filled, buttermilk cruellers, old fashioned, cheese, etc), muffins, cinnamon rolls, a few breakfast sandwiches, a few fancy coffees, and some other interesting items like the Apple Crepe (a crepe filled with cinnamon apples then deep fried and coated with cinnamon sugar).
Randy's is open 24 hours to satisfy that donut craving. Walk up (no seating) or drive through.
Paco's Tacos, Los Angeles, CA
Paco's Tacos Cantina
6212 Manchester Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045
310-645-8692
http://www.pacoscantina.com/
Located between Sepulveda and Truxton. Free parking behind the restaurant; shares the lot with other businesses and can be crowded at meal time.
A second location at 4141 S. Centinela Ave, LA.
Casual. Full bar. At dinner, can be dark inside.
Visited: Lunch and Dinner, Dine-in
Most recently: November 2009
Paco's has some really nice Mexican food basics (Enchiladas and Tacos, and other items in combination) as well as some tasty "Regional" and "Native" plates such as the Cochinita Pibil de Yucatan, pork chunks marinated in a special BBQ sauce served with rice, beans, and tortillas.
The real reason to come to Paco's is for the flour tortillas. They are handmade fresh throughout the day, and served warm with crisp, flaky and chewy textures in all the right places.
This location is near LAX and worth the stop if you are heading to or from the airport.
6212 Manchester Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045
310-645-8692
http://www.pacoscantina.com/
Located between Sepulveda and Truxton. Free parking behind the restaurant; shares the lot with other businesses and can be crowded at meal time.
A second location at 4141 S. Centinela Ave, LA.
Casual. Full bar. At dinner, can be dark inside.
Visited: Lunch and Dinner, Dine-in
Most recently: November 2009
Paco's has some really nice Mexican food basics (Enchiladas and Tacos, and other items in combination) as well as some tasty "Regional" and "Native" plates such as the Cochinita Pibil de Yucatan, pork chunks marinated in a special BBQ sauce served with rice, beans, and tortillas.
The real reason to come to Paco's is for the flour tortillas. They are handmade fresh throughout the day, and served warm with crisp, flaky and chewy textures in all the right places.
This location is near LAX and worth the stop if you are heading to or from the airport.
Don Jose Mexican Restaurant, Sebring, FL
Don Jose Mexican Restaurant
1711 SW Lakeview Dr, Sebring, FL
863-385-9326
http://www.donjosemexican.com/florida
Plenty of parking in their lot.
Casual nice.
Visited: Lunch, Dine-in
Most recently: September 2009
Don Jose is located on the shore of Lake Jackson, and many of the seats have a lovely view of the water, the reeds, and the wildlife (lovely little egrets and cranes).
The chips and salsa were fresh, and the salsa had a little kick to it.
We had the #7: Beef Burrito ($6.95; also available with Chicken) was full and satisfying, and quite the value for the price. The beans were tasty and creamy.
The #21: Enchilada Mole ($9.95) was exceptional. The shredded chicken in the chili guajillo and peanut butter mole sauce is very distinctive and tasty. The rice and beans are a nice accompaniment, but the real winner here is the mole.
Overall, a nice restaurant and pleasant suprise in Sebring.
1711 SW Lakeview Dr, Sebring, FL
863-385-9326
http://www.donjosemexican.com/florida
Plenty of parking in their lot.
Casual nice.
Visited: Lunch, Dine-in
Most recently: September 2009
Don Jose is located on the shore of Lake Jackson, and many of the seats have a lovely view of the water, the reeds, and the wildlife (lovely little egrets and cranes).
The chips and salsa were fresh, and the salsa had a little kick to it.
We had the #7: Beef Burrito ($6.95; also available with Chicken) was full and satisfying, and quite the value for the price. The beans were tasty and creamy.
The #21: Enchilada Mole ($9.95) was exceptional. The shredded chicken in the chili guajillo and peanut butter mole sauce is very distinctive and tasty. The rice and beans are a nice accompaniment, but the real winner here is the mole.
Overall, a nice restaurant and pleasant suprise in Sebring.
Charlie's Bar-B-Q, Dania Beach, FL
Charlie's Bar-B-Q
1302 S. Federal Hwy, Dania Beach, Fl 33004
954-924-0109
Plenty of parking behind the restaurant, also has a drive-through.
Dania Beach is in the greater Fort Lauderdale/Miami area.
Casual. Order and pick up at the counter.
Visited: Lunch, Dine-in
Most recently: March 2009
Charlie's Bar-B-Q is very tasty, and quite the value. Charlie, himself, is quite the character.
The Texas-style bbq is very good. The Beef Brisket Sandwich and the Pulled Pork Sandwich were on super tender rolls, and the meat was fork-tender, and the sweet bbq sauce, beans and potato salad were excellent.
When we head back to this area, we're going to stop by again.
1302 S. Federal Hwy, Dania Beach, Fl 33004
954-924-0109
Plenty of parking behind the restaurant, also has a drive-through.
Dania Beach is in the greater Fort Lauderdale/Miami area.
Casual. Order and pick up at the counter.
Visited: Lunch, Dine-in
Most recently: March 2009
Charlie's Bar-B-Q is very tasty, and quite the value. Charlie, himself, is quite the character.
The Texas-style bbq is very good. The Beef Brisket Sandwich and the Pulled Pork Sandwich were on super tender rolls, and the meat was fork-tender, and the sweet bbq sauce, beans and potato salad were excellent.
When we head back to this area, we're going to stop by again.
Bruddah's Hawaiian, Gardena, CA
Bruddah's Hawaiian
1033 W. Gardena Blvd, Gardena, CA 90247
310-323-9112
Located between Normandie and Vermont. Usually enough street parking; can be very crowded on weekend mornings.
Casual, Hawaiian-style.
Visited: Breakfast and Lunch, Dine-in
Most recently: October 2009
Bruddah's is a real Hawaiian hole in the wall. Everything is local style including the laid back clientele. Anything with a sauce or gravy is going to be outstanding. They have the best gravy maker anywhere. Some particular favorites include:
The Beef Shortribs Stew ($8.95) is part of the Daily Specials menu and only appears on Weds, Thurs, Sat, and Sun. The meat is super tender, as are the vegetables, and the rich tomatoey-beef gravy is heavenly with the rice. Also comes with Macaroni Salad.
Really, it's about the gravy. The Roast Pork with Gravy (Plate $7.95, Side $5.60) is a heavenly portion of tender roast pork smothered in their spectacular pork gravy served with rice and Mac.
The Loco Moco ($7.95) from the Breakfast Menu (which is served all day) is a mass of two hamburger patties served with two eggs over a mound of rice covered in an amazing brown gravy (with mushrooms). The best Loco Moco on the mainland. They also have a Spam Loco Moco ($6.95).
The Kalua Pork with Cabbage (Plate $7.95, Side $5.60) is also tasty.
While their food is always good, we're just as not as big a fan of their teriyaki dishes.
1033 W. Gardena Blvd, Gardena, CA 90247
310-323-9112
Located between Normandie and Vermont. Usually enough street parking; can be very crowded on weekend mornings.
Casual, Hawaiian-style.
Visited: Breakfast and Lunch, Dine-in
Most recently: October 2009
Bruddah's is a real Hawaiian hole in the wall. Everything is local style including the laid back clientele. Anything with a sauce or gravy is going to be outstanding. They have the best gravy maker anywhere. Some particular favorites include:
The Beef Shortribs Stew ($8.95) is part of the Daily Specials menu and only appears on Weds, Thurs, Sat, and Sun. The meat is super tender, as are the vegetables, and the rich tomatoey-beef gravy is heavenly with the rice. Also comes with Macaroni Salad.
Really, it's about the gravy. The Roast Pork with Gravy (Plate $7.95, Side $5.60) is a heavenly portion of tender roast pork smothered in their spectacular pork gravy served with rice and Mac.
The Loco Moco ($7.95) from the Breakfast Menu (which is served all day) is a mass of two hamburger patties served with two eggs over a mound of rice covered in an amazing brown gravy (with mushrooms). The best Loco Moco on the mainland. They also have a Spam Loco Moco ($6.95).
The Kalua Pork with Cabbage (Plate $7.95, Side $5.60) is also tasty.
While their food is always good, we're just as not as big a fan of their teriyaki dishes.
Tandoori Bistro, Harbor City, CA
Tandoori Bistro Pizzeria Cafe
970 W. Sepulveda Blvd, Harbor City, CA 90710
310-530-2245
Near Vermont, around the corner in the strip mall area near K-Mart. Plenty of parking.
Casual/fast foodish. Order and pick up at the counter. Limited seating.
Visited: Dinner, Take-Out
Most recently: October 2009
This is one of the more bizarre eateries, and perhaps reflective of the mix of food interests that you find in the South Bay. Menu items range from tandoori, pizza, smoothies, wraps, fancy coffees, sandwiches, and breakfast. We tried several items that have intrigued us to go back and try more.
We didn't know what to expect from the Tandoori BBQ Chicken Pizza ($16.99) but is was pretty good. In addition to the chicken, it came topped with bell peppers, onions and tomatoes. The pizza also comes as Tandoori Beef, and we'll probably get that next time.
We also tried a Large Pepperoni Pizza (Mini $3.99, Large $10.99). It was okay and somewhat plain. Most of the flavor from a pepperoni pizza comes from the pepperoni, and it was a bit sparse.
The Large Cheese Steak (Reg $5.99, Large $9.99) was very good. It is made of thin slices of Prime rib with Swiss cheese, grilled onions, and herbs. We would definitely get this again.
The Tandoori Beef Kabobs Medium ($7.99) is a actually a wrap sandwich, and quite tasty. It comes on a tandoori bread with grilled onion, tomatoes, cilantro and a white cheese. There's also a yogurt chutney spread on the bread.
The Cafe is rather small, and we recommend getting take-out.
970 W. Sepulveda Blvd, Harbor City, CA 90710
310-530-2245
Near Vermont, around the corner in the strip mall area near K-Mart. Plenty of parking.
Casual/fast foodish. Order and pick up at the counter. Limited seating.
Visited: Dinner, Take-Out
Most recently: October 2009
This is one of the more bizarre eateries, and perhaps reflective of the mix of food interests that you find in the South Bay. Menu items range from tandoori, pizza, smoothies, wraps, fancy coffees, sandwiches, and breakfast. We tried several items that have intrigued us to go back and try more.
We didn't know what to expect from the Tandoori BBQ Chicken Pizza ($16.99) but is was pretty good. In addition to the chicken, it came topped with bell peppers, onions and tomatoes. The pizza also comes as Tandoori Beef, and we'll probably get that next time.
We also tried a Large Pepperoni Pizza (Mini $3.99, Large $10.99). It was okay and somewhat plain. Most of the flavor from a pepperoni pizza comes from the pepperoni, and it was a bit sparse.
The Large Cheese Steak (Reg $5.99, Large $9.99) was very good. It is made of thin slices of Prime rib with Swiss cheese, grilled onions, and herbs. We would definitely get this again.
The Tandoori Beef Kabobs Medium ($7.99) is a actually a wrap sandwich, and quite tasty. It comes on a tandoori bread with grilled onion, tomatoes, cilantro and a white cheese. There's also a yogurt chutney spread on the bread.
The Cafe is rather small, and we recommend getting take-out.
Soho Thai, Lomita, CA
Soho Thai Fusion Bar & Grill
2104 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite #3, Lomita, CA 90717
310-530-SOHO (7646)
At the corner of PCH and Oak. Turn on Oak to enter the free parking lot behind the restaurant. The entrance is from the parking lot, not PCH.
Casual. Limited bar.
Visited: A few times; Lunch, Delivery, Dine-in and Take-Out
Most recently: February 2010
This is such a unique restaurant. While many of the menu items are Thai, it really is a whirlwind tour of noodle dishes from around the world. In addition to Little Bangkok and other Thai favorites, they also have dishes from Little Hong Kong, Little Saigon, Little Tokyo, and Little Italy. They also have Fried Rices, items From the Wok, Hot Stuff and Vegan Options. There are so many items to try, that we've barely made our way through them.
Overall, however, I would say that the portions seem small for the price, and our favorite dishes are in fact, the Thai dishes.
The daily Lunch Specials are also a great option - served with green salad, and choie of Thai Jasmine Rice, Brown Rice, or Fried Rice. The Thai BBQ Chicken ($9.00) was a generous serving of marinated bone-in chicken served with plum sauce.
The Tom Kha soup with Chicken (Cup $6.00, Pot $9.00) is a lovely and fragrant coconut soup with button mushrooms and galangal. The soup is midly spicy, and very satisfying on a cool rainy day. The Pot serving is a great size for an entree.
While the Pad See Ew (Chicken, Beef, Pork or Tofu $9.00; Shrimp $12.00; Seafood $15.00) - wide flat rice noodles stir fried with meat and broccoli in a soy sauce - is quite tasty, the broccoli wasn't quite cooked enough. While pretty and green, the broccoli was still very crunchy. When reheating leftover Pad See Ew, the broccoli finished cooking and was perfect. We had it with beef, and it was very tender and tasty.
One of usual favorites, Angel Wings ($7.00) were a bit a disappointing. These stuffed fried wings were tasty, but the filling had an odd chewy texture.
The Thai Toast ($7.00) was very flavorful. The toasts are small baguette slices topped with a minced pork filling then deep fried. If you've ever had shrimp toast before, this is the same concept. We enjoyed the toasts, but for the price, we felt we should have gotten more than 6 small pieces.
We had high hopes for Crying Tiger ($14.00) - thin slices of charbroiled marinated ribeye. The meat had a nice mild flavor, however the portion size was abysmal compared to the price, and the accompanying sticky rice was oddly wrapped in foil and a bit hard.
The Pad Thai ($10.00) is very tasty and we enjoyed it very much, however, again, the price is off-putting particularly when compared to other Thai restaurants. We have so many Thai places in the South Bay that make a good pad thai, why would we want to pay $10 when we can easily get a larger portion for less elsewhere.
We were excited to Chinese Lo Mein on the menu and ordered the Roasted Duck Lo Mein ($11.00). Yeah, not so much. Lo Mein are typically a thick eggy round noodles, instead, these were skinny chow mein noodles. While the duck itself wasn't bad, there wasn't much else - very little sauce and a few pieces of undercooked onions and baby bok choy.
From The Wok, we got the Asparagus Spears with Tofu ($9.00) which was a lovely stir fry of asparagus, tofu, and a little garlic. The menu advertised shiitakes as well, but I didn't see any.
And finally, the Panang Curry with chicken ($9.00) was delicious (chicken, peas, green bell peppers). The best panang curry that I've had. It had a great smooth texture, and a slightly sweet flavor. Very nice, very well done.
2104 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite #3, Lomita, CA 90717
310-530-SOHO (7646)
At the corner of PCH and Oak. Turn on Oak to enter the free parking lot behind the restaurant. The entrance is from the parking lot, not PCH.
Casual. Limited bar.
Visited: A few times; Lunch, Delivery, Dine-in and Take-Out
Most recently: February 2010
This is such a unique restaurant. While many of the menu items are Thai, it really is a whirlwind tour of noodle dishes from around the world. In addition to Little Bangkok and other Thai favorites, they also have dishes from Little Hong Kong, Little Saigon, Little Tokyo, and Little Italy. They also have Fried Rices, items From the Wok, Hot Stuff and Vegan Options. There are so many items to try, that we've barely made our way through them.
Overall, however, I would say that the portions seem small for the price, and our favorite dishes are in fact, the Thai dishes.
The daily Lunch Specials are also a great option - served with green salad, and choie of Thai Jasmine Rice, Brown Rice, or Fried Rice. The Thai BBQ Chicken ($9.00) was a generous serving of marinated bone-in chicken served with plum sauce.
The Tom Kha soup with Chicken (Cup $6.00, Pot $9.00) is a lovely and fragrant coconut soup with button mushrooms and galangal. The soup is midly spicy, and very satisfying on a cool rainy day. The Pot serving is a great size for an entree.
While the Pad See Ew (Chicken, Beef, Pork or Tofu $9.00; Shrimp $12.00; Seafood $15.00) - wide flat rice noodles stir fried with meat and broccoli in a soy sauce - is quite tasty, the broccoli wasn't quite cooked enough. While pretty and green, the broccoli was still very crunchy. When reheating leftover Pad See Ew, the broccoli finished cooking and was perfect. We had it with beef, and it was very tender and tasty.
One of usual favorites, Angel Wings ($7.00) were a bit a disappointing. These stuffed fried wings were tasty, but the filling had an odd chewy texture.
The Thai Toast ($7.00) was very flavorful. The toasts are small baguette slices topped with a minced pork filling then deep fried. If you've ever had shrimp toast before, this is the same concept. We enjoyed the toasts, but for the price, we felt we should have gotten more than 6 small pieces.
We had high hopes for Crying Tiger ($14.00) - thin slices of charbroiled marinated ribeye. The meat had a nice mild flavor, however the portion size was abysmal compared to the price, and the accompanying sticky rice was oddly wrapped in foil and a bit hard.
The Pad Thai ($10.00) is very tasty and we enjoyed it very much, however, again, the price is off-putting particularly when compared to other Thai restaurants. We have so many Thai places in the South Bay that make a good pad thai, why would we want to pay $10 when we can easily get a larger portion for less elsewhere.
We were excited to Chinese Lo Mein on the menu and ordered the Roasted Duck Lo Mein ($11.00). Yeah, not so much. Lo Mein are typically a thick eggy round noodles, instead, these were skinny chow mein noodles. While the duck itself wasn't bad, there wasn't much else - very little sauce and a few pieces of undercooked onions and baby bok choy.
From The Wok, we got the Asparagus Spears with Tofu ($9.00) which was a lovely stir fry of asparagus, tofu, and a little garlic. The menu advertised shiitakes as well, but I didn't see any.
And finally, the Panang Curry with chicken ($9.00) was delicious (chicken, peas, green bell peppers). The best panang curry that I've had. It had a great smooth texture, and a slightly sweet flavor. Very nice, very well done.
New York Deli #2, Torrance, CA
New York Deli #2
2424 Sepulveda Blvd, Torrance, CA 90501
310-891-1229
http://www.thenewyorkdeli.com/
Closed Sundays
Plenty of free parking in the strip mall parking lot.
Casual. Order at the counter or full service.
Visited: Dinner, Take-Out
Most recently: Many times over the years; most recently October 2009
We used to frequent the NY Deli #1 further down on Sepulveda (near Arlington), but that one is now under construction and appears to be becoming a dentistry office. It ws originally recommended to us by New Yorkers, so we figure it had to be good!
In all, NY Deli is very tasty with very large portions - it's not uncommon for the sandwich to last two meals. Some of our favorites include:
#1: Hot Corned Beef ($8.95) served on Rye Bread with mustard, and choice of salad (Potato, Cole Slaw, Macaroni , Carrot, Pasta, Three Bean, Cucumber or Fresh Fruit in summer). We usually get the Potato salad as our favorite, however all of the salads are good.
#9: Kosher Beef Salami ($8.95): a huge sandwich served with lettuce, tomotoes and mustard served on Rye. Instead of the mustard, we get the Russian dressing - a great combination with the tasty salami.
#11: Liverwurst ($8.50): a huge and very tasty pile of liverwurst that comes with onions, lettuce, tomatoes, and mayo. This sandwich is also good with mustard instead of mayo.
#15a: Fresh Chopped Chicken Liver ($8.50) sandwich served with raw onion. We usually omit the onions, and add tomatoes. The chopped liver also has bits of hard boiled egg, and is very rich and tasty. The tomatoes help to cut the richness.
There are also several High Sandwiches - the original sandwiches are so large, we can't imagine ordering one High, but at least there's the option.
#27: Club House (12.50) is a huge sandwich served on Rye with choice of salad. The Club consists of turkey breast, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo.
#51: Three Salad Platter ($14.95): a scoop each of chicken, egg, and tuna salads served with tomatoes, onion, pickles, and choice of bread, roll or bagel. It's enough for two people to share.
They also have half-pound burgers. We got the Bacon Cheeseburger ($8.95) which comes wth a large serving of crinkle-cut fries. A very tasty and substantial burger.
#32: Submarine ($13.95) is enough for two people. However, if you are expecting a traditional Italian sub, this is not it. The Sub is turkey, roast beef, ham, salami, roast beef, Swiss cheese, American cheese, tomato, lettuce and mayo on a French roll, plus pickle and choice of salad.
NY Deli has been a mainstay for us for over 20 years.
2424 Sepulveda Blvd, Torrance, CA 90501
310-891-1229
http://www.thenewyorkdeli.com/
Closed Sundays
Plenty of free parking in the strip mall parking lot.
Casual. Order at the counter or full service.
Visited: Dinner, Take-Out
Most recently: Many times over the years; most recently October 2009
We used to frequent the NY Deli #1 further down on Sepulveda (near Arlington), but that one is now under construction and appears to be becoming a dentistry office. It ws originally recommended to us by New Yorkers, so we figure it had to be good!
In all, NY Deli is very tasty with very large portions - it's not uncommon for the sandwich to last two meals. Some of our favorites include:
#1: Hot Corned Beef ($8.95) served on Rye Bread with mustard, and choice of salad (Potato, Cole Slaw, Macaroni , Carrot, Pasta, Three Bean, Cucumber or Fresh Fruit in summer). We usually get the Potato salad as our favorite, however all of the salads are good.
#9: Kosher Beef Salami ($8.95): a huge sandwich served with lettuce, tomotoes and mustard served on Rye. Instead of the mustard, we get the Russian dressing - a great combination with the tasty salami.
#11: Liverwurst ($8.50): a huge and very tasty pile of liverwurst that comes with onions, lettuce, tomatoes, and mayo. This sandwich is also good with mustard instead of mayo.
#15a: Fresh Chopped Chicken Liver ($8.50) sandwich served with raw onion. We usually omit the onions, and add tomatoes. The chopped liver also has bits of hard boiled egg, and is very rich and tasty. The tomatoes help to cut the richness.
There are also several High Sandwiches - the original sandwiches are so large, we can't imagine ordering one High, but at least there's the option.
#27: Club House (12.50) is a huge sandwich served on Rye with choice of salad. The Club consists of turkey breast, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo.
#51: Three Salad Platter ($14.95): a scoop each of chicken, egg, and tuna salads served with tomatoes, onion, pickles, and choice of bread, roll or bagel. It's enough for two people to share.
They also have half-pound burgers. We got the Bacon Cheeseburger ($8.95) which comes wth a large serving of crinkle-cut fries. A very tasty and substantial burger.
#32: Submarine ($13.95) is enough for two people. However, if you are expecting a traditional Italian sub, this is not it. The Sub is turkey, roast beef, ham, salami, roast beef, Swiss cheese, American cheese, tomato, lettuce and mayo on a French roll, plus pickle and choice of salad.
NY Deli has been a mainstay for us for over 20 years.
Woody's Bar-B-Q, Sebring, FL
Woody's Bar-B-Q
3030 US 27 North, Sebring, FL 33870
863-314-4447
http://www.woodys.com/
25 locations throughout Florida, and few other locations in the southeast.
Casual, family friendly.
Visited: Dinner, Dine-in
Most recently: Dec 2009
Over the years, we've seen billboards for Woody's on the interstate throughout the state of Florida, and finally decided to try one, and it wasn't bad! Definitely better than another large southeast chain, Sonny's BBQ.
We got the Pork Sampler ($12.99) which consists of 2 spareribs, a small pile of Carolina pulled pork, and several slices of bar-b-q pork. They serve the bbq sauces on the side - Southern Sweet, Smokin' Hot, and Tangy Mustard. The meat looked dry, but once you put a little of your fave sauce on top, it didn't feel dry at all and was very tender. It comes with garlic toast and two sides (choice of Special Recipe Bar-B-Q Beans, Creamy Cole Slaw, French Fries, Country Vegetables, or Mashed Potatoes and Gravy), and we got the beans (sweet and smoky; very tasty) and for $2 extra, the Corn Nuggets (which are on the appetizer menu) which are tasty little fried creamed corn morsels. It doesn't look like much when the plate arrives, but it's quite a bit of food. I had some leftover sliced bar-b-q pork, and ate it the next day with garlic toast as a mini sandwich - a very tasty sandwich.
We also tried the Bacon Cheddar Burger ($7.79) which is based on a half-pound grilled Angus beef burger. The burger comes with one side, and we got the fries. This is a very generous and filling burger.
Haven't quite figured out what the Country Vegetables are, but the next time we get a hankering for bbq while in Florida, we'll have to stop in and ask.
3030 US 27 North, Sebring, FL 33870
863-314-4447
http://www.woodys.com/
25 locations throughout Florida, and few other locations in the southeast.
Casual, family friendly.
Visited: Dinner, Dine-in
Most recently: Dec 2009
Over the years, we've seen billboards for Woody's on the interstate throughout the state of Florida, and finally decided to try one, and it wasn't bad! Definitely better than another large southeast chain, Sonny's BBQ.
We got the Pork Sampler ($12.99) which consists of 2 spareribs, a small pile of Carolina pulled pork, and several slices of bar-b-q pork. They serve the bbq sauces on the side - Southern Sweet, Smokin' Hot, and Tangy Mustard. The meat looked dry, but once you put a little of your fave sauce on top, it didn't feel dry at all and was very tender. It comes with garlic toast and two sides (choice of Special Recipe Bar-B-Q Beans, Creamy Cole Slaw, French Fries, Country Vegetables, or Mashed Potatoes and Gravy), and we got the beans (sweet and smoky; very tasty) and for $2 extra, the Corn Nuggets (which are on the appetizer menu) which are tasty little fried creamed corn morsels. It doesn't look like much when the plate arrives, but it's quite a bit of food. I had some leftover sliced bar-b-q pork, and ate it the next day with garlic toast as a mini sandwich - a very tasty sandwich.
We also tried the Bacon Cheddar Burger ($7.79) which is based on a half-pound grilled Angus beef burger. The burger comes with one side, and we got the fries. This is a very generous and filling burger.
Haven't quite figured out what the Country Vegetables are, but the next time we get a hankering for bbq while in Florida, we'll have to stop in and ask.
The Watering Hole, Sebring, FL
The Watering Hole
6813 US 27 South, Sebring, FL 33876
863-382-4554
http://www.wateringholesebring.com/
Restaurant open Mon-Sat, 4pm-10pm. Lounge and package store open 7 days.
Plenty of parking in the dirt lot.
Cash only; they have an ATM inside.
Casual. Can be dark inside.
Visited: Dinner, Dine-in
Most recently: December 2009
The Watering Hole has been in Sebring for a very long time, and really did start out as a watering hole for the local cowboys way back in the day. It's now a really good steak and seafood restaurant, but still maintains some of the casual cowboy-ness with its large wood plank tables and large communal-ish dinig room. There's also a 14'+ alligator named Bully that lives there, and if you're lucky, you may actually see Bully move.
As soon as you walk in, you smell garlic, and the entrees come with the house garlic bread which is quite tasty and not for the faint of heart. The bread is toasted in the same area as the dining room, so the smell really pervades everywhere.
All of the dinners come with green salad, fruit salad or cole slaw. The green salad is nicely sized and very colorful. It has romaine as its lettuce base topped with pretty bell peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots. The fruit salad was a very nice mix of melons, fresh pineapple, and grapes.
Entrees also come with a very nice fruity garnish of a strawberry, a third of a peeled banana, and a thick slice of grapefruit. Very pretty. You also have your choice of potato: baked, parsleyed red, or fries. In all, very generous portions.
In addition to the menu items, you'll also see their meat and seafood specials at the hostess podium. We got the special of the day Porterhouse ($21.95). YUM! It was well cooked and comes slathered in the same garlic butter that is on the bread, and a baked potato. It was a great price for the quality and size of the meat and for all that comes with it.
We also got the Cowboy-size Fillet Mignon (as opposed to the Cowgirl-size) with Fries, the special of the day Ribeye ($15.95) with parsleyed red potatoes, and the very nicely sized Fried Shrimp (choice of grilled, fried, or sauteed in the garlic butter) and potatoes.
We saw someone at the next table over have the fettucini (with a number of menu options), and I think we'll try that the next time we visit.
Everything was very tasty, and the service was good and southern friendly.
6813 US 27 South, Sebring, FL 33876
863-382-4554
http://www.wateringholesebring.com/
Restaurant open Mon-Sat, 4pm-10pm. Lounge and package store open 7 days.
Plenty of parking in the dirt lot.
Cash only; they have an ATM inside.
Casual. Can be dark inside.
Visited: Dinner, Dine-in
Most recently: December 2009
The Watering Hole has been in Sebring for a very long time, and really did start out as a watering hole for the local cowboys way back in the day. It's now a really good steak and seafood restaurant, but still maintains some of the casual cowboy-ness with its large wood plank tables and large communal-ish dinig room. There's also a 14'+ alligator named Bully that lives there, and if you're lucky, you may actually see Bully move.
As soon as you walk in, you smell garlic, and the entrees come with the house garlic bread which is quite tasty and not for the faint of heart. The bread is toasted in the same area as the dining room, so the smell really pervades everywhere.
All of the dinners come with green salad, fruit salad or cole slaw. The green salad is nicely sized and very colorful. It has romaine as its lettuce base topped with pretty bell peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots. The fruit salad was a very nice mix of melons, fresh pineapple, and grapes.
Entrees also come with a very nice fruity garnish of a strawberry, a third of a peeled banana, and a thick slice of grapefruit. Very pretty. You also have your choice of potato: baked, parsleyed red, or fries. In all, very generous portions.
In addition to the menu items, you'll also see their meat and seafood specials at the hostess podium. We got the special of the day Porterhouse ($21.95). YUM! It was well cooked and comes slathered in the same garlic butter that is on the bread, and a baked potato. It was a great price for the quality and size of the meat and for all that comes with it.
We also got the Cowboy-size Fillet Mignon (as opposed to the Cowgirl-size) with Fries, the special of the day Ribeye ($15.95) with parsleyed red potatoes, and the very nicely sized Fried Shrimp (choice of grilled, fried, or sauteed in the garlic butter) and potatoes.
We saw someone at the next table over have the fettucini (with a number of menu options), and I think we'll try that the next time we visit.
Everything was very tasty, and the service was good and southern friendly.
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